PADUCAH, Ky. — The Paducah community is grappling with the heartbreaking murder of Stephanie Stacey, a mother of two and bartender at KC’s Bar and Grill, whose life was senselessly taken by her estranged husband, 38-year-old Phillip Whitnel, on December 13, 2025.
According to sources, the tragic incident occurred around 3:14 a.m. when Phillip Whitnel entered KC’s Bar and Grill, chased Stephanie into a corner, and shot her five to six times at point-blank range. Stephanie and Phillip had been going through a divorce, and reports indicate that Phillip had a history of violent abuse toward Stephanie, which had led to her being granted a domestic violence order (DVO) for protection.
Sources say that a recent altercation occurred a week or two prior, when Phillip aggressively tried to force Stephanie into his truck while their child watched and screamed from inside the vehicle. This confrontation was captured on video and left Stephanie with numerous bruises, yet authorities reportedly did not pursue charges, claiming there was “not enough evidence” to act.
Stephanie and Phillip had another court hearing just days before her death. Sources indicate that her lawyer attempted to urge the system to provide additional protections, but the efforts were reportedly dismissed. Further concern arose when it was discovered that Whitnel had been conducting online searches related to prison life and the Chris Watts murder, suggesting premeditation and a continued threat to Stephanie’s safety.
Phillip Whitnel was later apprehended by authorities in Illinois and is being held at the Franklin County Jail pending extradition back to Kentucky.
Stephanie’s death has ignited outrage and grief, highlighting the failures of law enforcement and the judicial system to protect victims of domestic violence. Advocates stress that when warnings are ignored and protective measures are not enforced, victims can face fatal consequences, as tragically demonstrated in Stephanie’s case.
Her family, friends, and community continue to mourn the loss of a vibrant, courageous young woman whose life was taken far too soon. The case has raised critical questions about accountability and the steps needed to better safeguard survivors of domestic abuse.